Kata Tjuta

Kata Tjuta and Uluru form the two major landmarks of the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.

Kata Tjuta, formerly known as The Olgas, is a group of large ancient rock formations approximately 30 kilometres away from Uluru in Australia's Red Centre. Together these giant stone formations form the two major landmarks within the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.

The 36 domes that make up Kata Tjuta are spread over an area of more than 20 kilometres. The highest point is Mount Olga, which was named in honour of Queen Olga of Württemberg.

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park is jointly managed by its Anangu traditional owners and Parks Australia. Kata Tjuta is sacred to the Anangu people, who have inhabited the area for more than 22,000 years. The sandstone domes of Kata Tjuta are believed to be around 500 million years old.

Kata Tjuta, Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, NT

Kata Tjuta is a Pitjantjatjara Aboriginal tribe word meaning 'many heads'. There are many Pitjantjatjara legends associated with Kata Tjuta. One legend tells the story of the great snake king Wanambi who is said to live on the summit of Mount Olga and only come down during the dry season. Kata Tjuta is a sacred site for men in the Anangu Aboriginal culture and many of the legends surrounding the site are kept secret.

The ochre-coloured shapes are an intriguing and mesmerising sight which some travellers find even more captivating than Uluru. You can choose from a number of walking trails that range from easy strolls to longer, more difficult tracks. The Kata Tjuta dune viewing and sunset viewing areas offer magnificent panoramic views of the domes and are relaxing places to sit and absorb the ever-changing landscape. At sunset and sunset it is awe-inspiring as the domes appear to glow and turn deep shade of red.

Kata Tjuta, Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, NT

The 2.6 kilometre Walpa Gorge walk is the shorter and easier of the two walks around Kata Tjuta. The longest trail at Kata Tjuta is the 7 kilometre Valley of the Winds Walk. It is very steep in places, but the circuit is worth the effort. This walk will lead you between the domes, through creek beds and to the Karu and Karingana lookouts. The entire circuit takes approximately four hours. The walk is best during the early morning hours, before the large crowds arrive, and when the wildlife is more active. The walk is closed when temperatures reach 36C, which is very common in summer (December - February).

Visit the Uluru-Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre first to learn more about the ancestral beings and significance of the walks. You can then begin your walks with a deeper understanding. Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park is recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Area for both its natural and cultural values.

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park is located approximately 365 kilometres or a four and a half hour drive southwest of Alice Springs. Many visitors choose to explore Australia's outback at their own pace by driving the Northern Territory's famous Red Centre Way. This gives you a chance to explore Uluru, Kings Canyon, the West MacDonnell Ranges and Alice Springs.

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Red Centre

Red Centre

Red Centre

Discover Australia's Red Centre, where Alice Springs offers access to the awe-inspiring landscapes of Uluru and Kata Tjuta, the MacDonnell Ranges and Kings Canyon. Soak up Aboriginal culture and rugged natural beauty on classic outback journeys; drive the Red Centre Way, hike the Larapinta Trail, ride a camel in the Simpson Desert or take the Ghan train journey from Darwin or Adelaide.

Nothing says Australia quite like our Outback. The open spaces that seem to stretch on forever tell the story of the exploration and development of our wide brown land, and reflect Australia's pioneering spirit and unique identity. You can find a little bit of the outback in every state of Australia, and while the regions are remote, they can be easily accessed from most major cities and towns.

Swim in Glen Helen Gorge and spot rock wallabies at Simpsons Gap, both in the West MacDonnell Ranges. Listen to the Dreamtime legend surrounding the comet crater of Gosse Bluff. Climb to the rim of Kings Canyon and swim in the tropical pools of the Garden of Eden. Do a dawn camel trek around Uluṟu and wander between the steep russet domes of nearby Kata Tjuṯa. Journey through red desert sands, spinifex and mulga forest. Learn about the area's Aboriginal history from the Arrernte people who have lived here for 20,000 years. Immerse yourself in Aboriginal art and pioneer history in Alice Springs. Don't miss this unforgettable adventure through Australia's ancient centre.

World Heritage-listed Uluru is one of Australia’s most iconic symbols. Located in the heart of Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park in Australia’s Red Centre, Uluru is an ancient landscape, rich in Australian indigenous culture and spirituality. There are many ways to experience the majesty of Uluru and the beauty of this unique desert landscape. Take a walk with an Aboriginal guide and learn about ancient traditions and stories from the Dreamtime. See it from the skies by helicopter or hot air balloon. Ride across the ochre coloured desert on a Harley Davidson motorcycle or on the back of a camel.